Expectations

Some of you may wonder if everyone knows about Russell's diagnosis why are we not putting it on Facebook.  It was at Matt's request, partly to avoid the negative labeling from random people on Facebook. I didn't really get what we he was saying until this morning.  It is something I've been thinking about but had different words for it. I don't want expectations for Russell to be lower than for others.

We've received various charts that show when "normal" kids reach certain milestones (sitting, crawling, walking etc) and when those with Down Syndrome reach them. I find the charts disheartening not only because my son may be slower to reach those milestones but also because other's expectations of Russell will be lower.

Now, I realize that Russell may not sit at 6 months like other children but I don't want myself, or anyone else, to just assume that it will be longer (average is 11 months for kids with DS).  Instead, I find myself wanting to prop him up in a boppy at 4 weeks which is a little ridiculous but you get the point - I'm extra driven to see him beat the traditional DS milestones. He has already rolled over twice so who is to say he won't sit at 6 months?

All this to say, we need to be realistic that he may not sit at 6 months but encourage him and believe that it could happen.

 Russell lounging in his frog pajamas

My curly haired boy